Play Therapy in San Luis Obispo County, CA

Photo of Marcia Bronstein Lcsw, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Luis Obispo County, CA
Marcia Bronstein Lcsw
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Are you or a family member feeling anxious, sad, grief, parenting challenges, family conflict, relationship problems, life changes Are you feeling stressed or overwhelmed with life changes, school, college, work or family? You are not alone I can help. I create a safe space for children to express themselves through play, art, and social emotional activities to learn healthy ways to express big emotions while learning coping skills. Parenting can be difficult, I offer parenting support and consultation. My room is a safe place to explore your needs, to be heard and understood, and for families to talk.
Are you or a family member feeling anxious, sad, grief, parenting challenges, family conflict, relationship problems, life changes Are you feeling stressed or overwhelmed with life changes, school, college, work or family? You are not alone I can help. I create a safe space for children to express themselves through play, art, and social emotional activities to learn healthy ways to express big emotions while learning coping skills. Parenting can be difficult, I offer parenting support and consultation. My room is a safe place to explore your needs, to be heard and understood, and for families to talk.
(805) 317-4493 View (805) 317-4493
Photo of Veronica Fletcher, Psychologist in San Luis Obispo County, CA
Veronica Fletcher
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pismo Beach, CA 93449
I work from a depth and relationship based perspective while integrating play therapy and evidenced-based interventions to address the unique and personal needs of my clients. I have a special interest in working with individuals with trauma histories, including childhood maltreatment and abuse, and have completed formal comprehensive training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR). I encourage gaining awareness and curiosity for all parts of self to better understand how your past can influence your present and future as well as how individual strengths can help you heal and become whole.
I work from a depth and relationship based perspective while integrating play therapy and evidenced-based interventions to address the unique and personal needs of my clients. I have a special interest in working with individuals with trauma histories, including childhood maltreatment and abuse, and have completed formal comprehensive training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR). I encourage gaining awareness and curiosity for all parts of self to better understand how your past can influence your present and future as well as how individual strengths can help you heal and become whole.
(559) 632-0191 View (559) 632-0191
Photo of Janine Porter, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo County, CA
Janine Porter
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I will most often utilize a combination of modalities to best suit the client, and specialize in psychodynamic, humanistic, client-centered, creative play-based, and solution-focused approaches.
Seeking therapy is a brave choice and a valuable step in the healing process. If you are pursing therapy for support through a difficult time or transition, for healing childhood wounds, if you are feeling emotional pain or hurt, having trouble navigating a difficult relationship, and/or seeking deeper self-exploration, betterment and growth, I commend you. This is a courageous first step.
I will most often utilize a combination of modalities to best suit the client, and specialize in psychodynamic, humanistic, client-centered, creative play-based, and solution-focused approaches.
Seeking therapy is a brave choice and a valuable step in the healing process. If you are pursing therapy for support through a difficult time or transition, for healing childhood wounds, if you are feeling emotional pain or hurt, having trouble navigating a difficult relationship, and/or seeking deeper self-exploration, betterment and growth, I commend you. This is a courageous first step.
(805) 316-7083 View (805) 316-7083
Photo of Jennifer M Blomfield, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo County, CA
Jennifer M Blomfield
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Morro Bay, CA 93442
Jennifer has extensive training in art and play therapy and is currently receiving additional training and certification in EMDR (Eye movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
"Therapy can be a place where the wonder and awe of self discovery can culminate in personal clarity, empowerment and promote a richer more fulfilling life. Living with past and present wounds, dealing with depression, anxiety, anger or addictions, or working through difficult relationships and life transitions, our lives may seem out of control when our emotions and our thinking are out of balance. As your counselor I will help you by gently guiding you in finding that balance by creating a safe and supportive environment as you develop skills to regain your mentally healthy life."
Jennifer has extensive training in art and play therapy and is currently receiving additional training and certification in EMDR (Eye movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
"Therapy can be a place where the wonder and awe of self discovery can culminate in personal clarity, empowerment and promote a richer more fulfilling life. Living with past and present wounds, dealing with depression, anxiety, anger or addictions, or working through difficult relationships and life transitions, our lives may seem out of control when our emotions and our thinking are out of balance. As your counselor I will help you by gently guiding you in finding that balance by creating a safe and supportive environment as you develop skills to regain your mentally healthy life."
(805) 706-8114 View (805) 706-8114
Photo of Sheri Shaffer Hewitt, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo County, CA
Sheri Shaffer Hewitt
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Paso Robles, CA 93446
I use a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, (EFT), and EMDR approachs along and Play Therapy for children.
Has life become overwhelming or unsatisfying. I have many years of experience working with individuals, couples and children ages 5 and up. Come in to learn how to find better communication, and a more productive and fulfilling life. Acquire information and skills to overcome anxiety, loneliness, sadness, resentment, anger and just plain feeling stuck. Find out how you, as an individual, can make a big difference in the way you and/or your relationships work. I do specialize in working with the whole family. Find out why the most stable and enlightened people get help before more serious problems arise.
I use a Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, (EFT), and EMDR approachs along and Play Therapy for children.
Has life become overwhelming or unsatisfying. I have many years of experience working with individuals, couples and children ages 5 and up. Come in to learn how to find better communication, and a more productive and fulfilling life. Acquire information and skills to overcome anxiety, loneliness, sadness, resentment, anger and just plain feeling stuck. Find out how you, as an individual, can make a big difference in the way you and/or your relationships work. I do specialize in working with the whole family. Find out why the most stable and enlightened people get help before more serious problems arise.
(805) 918-5074 View (805) 918-5074
Photo of Amber Hollarman, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo County, CA
Amber Hollarman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atascadero, CA 93422  (Online Only)
In working with children, I use play, art, and traditional talk therapy to understand a child's experience of their difficulties, and as modes of intervention.
I believe that each person has a unique self that must be respected, recognized and understood. My practice focuses on helping people understand their specific challenges, and utilizing their particular strengths in order to heal, change, and grow. I utilize a compassionate and empathetic approach that offers customized treatment to the specific needs/goals of each individual or family.
In working with children, I use play, art, and traditional talk therapy to understand a child's experience of their difficulties, and as modes of intervention.
I believe that each person has a unique self that must be respected, recognized and understood. My practice focuses on helping people understand their specific challenges, and utilizing their particular strengths in order to heal, change, and grow. I utilize a compassionate and empathetic approach that offers customized treatment to the specific needs/goals of each individual or family.
(805) 719-7491 View (805) 719-7491
Photo of Christine T Tran, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo County, CA
Christine T Tran
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I specialize in helping children and teens learn coping skills and emotional regulation, asian- american mental health, and have training in play therapy.
First, I want to acknowledge how brave you are for being here and seeking help. Whether you are a parent looking to support your child, a young adult anxious about their future, or someone whose navigating the next chapter of your life, I offer empathetic support and tools to manage responses to life's many difficulties. My hope is to create a space for you to feel truly safe and supported while having your experiences in life honored and validated. I work with children, teens, and young adults to address challenges with anxiety, depression, trauma, attachment, school stressors, behavioral issues, and family conflict.
I specialize in helping children and teens learn coping skills and emotional regulation, asian- american mental health, and have training in play therapy.
First, I want to acknowledge how brave you are for being here and seeking help. Whether you are a parent looking to support your child, a young adult anxious about their future, or someone whose navigating the next chapter of your life, I offer empathetic support and tools to manage responses to life's many difficulties. My hope is to create a space for you to feel truly safe and supported while having your experiences in life honored and validated. I work with children, teens, and young adults to address challenges with anxiety, depression, trauma, attachment, school stressors, behavioral issues, and family conflict.
(805) 429-6440 View (805) 429-6440
Photo of Rachel Quigley, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo County, CA
Rachel Quigley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
With children I offer non-directive play therapy and include education, ideas and collaboration with parents.
Folks who come to work with me are from all walks of life, experiencing a variety of challenges, and are exploring who they are, their patterns, and how they’d like to improve mental health and wellbeing. As a somatically trained therapist, I incorporate information from the body, use of mindfulness, curiosity and self-awareness into the process. In over a decade of this work, I've developed a relaxed, comfortable, relational and insight-oriented approach. Whether you're seeking to heal a specific challenge, improve general wellbeing or your relationship with yourself I'm here to support in your journey. Lets learn about you!
With children I offer non-directive play therapy and include education, ideas and collaboration with parents.
Folks who come to work with me are from all walks of life, experiencing a variety of challenges, and are exploring who they are, their patterns, and how they’d like to improve mental health and wellbeing. As a somatically trained therapist, I incorporate information from the body, use of mindfulness, curiosity and self-awareness into the process. In over a decade of this work, I've developed a relaxed, comfortable, relational and insight-oriented approach. Whether you're seeking to heal a specific challenge, improve general wellbeing or your relationship with yourself I'm here to support in your journey. Lets learn about you!
(805) 316-7167 View (805) 316-7167
Photo of Anthony Paul Martello, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Luis Obispo County, CA
Anthony Paul Martello
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
And for children and young adults, I utilize play therapy and the creative arts.
Are you afraid, confused, or struggling with your relationships? I work with client(s) dealing with interpersonal issues and communication challenges. It may be a husband and wife re-defining their roles with life changes, or an individual considering a career change. The problem often reveals itself at the surface when arguing and verbal conflict ensue, but the source of the problem needs a deeper adjustment, such as adjusting roles or providing more support for a family member. Regardless, clear communication usually allows the individual, couple, or family to achieve the goal of collaboration and compromise.
And for children and young adults, I utilize play therapy and the creative arts.
Are you afraid, confused, or struggling with your relationships? I work with client(s) dealing with interpersonal issues and communication challenges. It may be a husband and wife re-defining their roles with life changes, or an individual considering a career change. The problem often reveals itself at the surface when arguing and verbal conflict ensue, but the source of the problem needs a deeper adjustment, such as adjusting roles or providing more support for a family member. Regardless, clear communication usually allows the individual, couple, or family to achieve the goal of collaboration and compromise.
(805) 608-4102 View (805) 608-4102
Photo of Karen H Shin, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo County, CA
Karen H Shin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Templeton, CA 93465
I often integrate EMDR, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), as well as play and art therapy, narratives, to assist processing and overcoming the negative effects of the past traumatic experiences and move towards healing.
Hello. I’m a trauma informed attachment therapist certified in EMDR. I believe in our ability to heal and grow. I love to see individual and families to heal, grow and thrive because occasionally being human is difficult. I would be honored if invited to be a part of your journey as you explore issues around yourself, on parenting, or relationship challenges. If you experience self-doubt, depression, anxiety, due to trauma, grief and losses, I’m here for you. If you have been considering bringing some positive changes to your life, reach out to me and let's journey together.
I often integrate EMDR, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), as well as play and art therapy, narratives, to assist processing and overcoming the negative effects of the past traumatic experiences and move towards healing.
Hello. I’m a trauma informed attachment therapist certified in EMDR. I believe in our ability to heal and grow. I love to see individual and families to heal, grow and thrive because occasionally being human is difficult. I would be honored if invited to be a part of your journey as you explore issues around yourself, on parenting, or relationship challenges. If you experience self-doubt, depression, anxiety, due to trauma, grief and losses, I’m here for you. If you have been considering bringing some positive changes to your life, reach out to me and let's journey together.
(805) 219-7078 View (805) 219-7078
Photo of Wendy Ann Clodfelter, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo County, CA
Wendy Ann Clodfelter
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Atascadero, CA 93422
I use CBT, solution focused brief therapy, directive and non directive play therapy, EMDR, EFT, mindfulness and DBT.
My passion is working with kids and families. I can help with anxiety, depression, relationships and attachment, trauma, school concerns and low self esteem. I also support parents and offer solutions to behavioral concerns at home and in the school setting. I work with families to help with improved communication and better functioning. I encourage parents to take care of themselves and focus on what is working as well as change what is not working.
I use CBT, solution focused brief therapy, directive and non directive play therapy, EMDR, EFT, mindfulness and DBT.
My passion is working with kids and families. I can help with anxiety, depression, relationships and attachment, trauma, school concerns and low self esteem. I also support parents and offer solutions to behavioral concerns at home and in the school setting. I work with families to help with improved communication and better functioning. I encourage parents to take care of themselves and focus on what is working as well as change what is not working.
(805) 391-7914 View (805) 391-7914
Photo of Kai Lillie, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo County, CA
Kai Lillie
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
my focusing is on understanding the dynamics of each member, and how these dynamics create the cycles that play out within the system.
What brings you here? If you are scrolling through these pages, you are likely looking for support, either for yourself or someone you care about. While it is easier now to find psychological support, finding the right person to work with is as important as ever. While working with me you will be received in a warm, non-judgmental, and curiosity filled environment. While considering what brought you into therapy, we will reflect on the circumstances contributing to where you are today. Our focus will be on integrating what has been in order to develop into what can be.
my focusing is on understanding the dynamics of each member, and how these dynamics create the cycles that play out within the system.
What brings you here? If you are scrolling through these pages, you are likely looking for support, either for yourself or someone you care about. While it is easier now to find psychological support, finding the right person to work with is as important as ever. While working with me you will be received in a warm, non-judgmental, and curiosity filled environment. While considering what brought you into therapy, we will reflect on the circumstances contributing to where you are today. Our focus will be on integrating what has been in order to develop into what can be.
(510) 990-9815 View (510) 990-9815
Photo of Sara Anne Powers, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Luis Obispo County, CA
Sara Anne Powers
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, BA, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
I primarily use child centered non-directive play therapy.
As a parent, if your child/teen is struggling, you can often feel helpless, not knowing what you can or "should" do to help them. Therapy offers a space for your child/teen to work through difficult feelings that are getting in the way of them being able to move through the developmental tasks, that allow them to grow up confident and strong. While talk therapy is a part of my practice, for most children, and even teens, play is their primary language. Your child/teen will have the safe space they need to work through their issues, in a way that feels comfortable and accessible to them, while building skills and confidence.
I primarily use child centered non-directive play therapy.
As a parent, if your child/teen is struggling, you can often feel helpless, not knowing what you can or "should" do to help them. Therapy offers a space for your child/teen to work through difficult feelings that are getting in the way of them being able to move through the developmental tasks, that allow them to grow up confident and strong. While talk therapy is a part of my practice, for most children, and even teens, play is their primary language. Your child/teen will have the safe space they need to work through their issues, in a way that feels comfortable and accessible to them, while building skills and confidence.
(805) 590-2976 View (805) 590-2976
Photo of Victoria Jane Fisher, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Luis Obispo County, CA
Victoria Jane Fisher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I am licensed therapist with over 15 years of extensive experience and am trained in EMDR, CBT, Play Therapy, Art Therapy and Sand Tray Therapy.
My therapeutic approach prioritizes client-centered care, emphasizing strengths and humanistic principles to empower individuals to recognize their capacity for personal growth. I believe in the importance and power of the therapeutic relationship and how feeling heard, validated and supported can help towards one’s personal growth. I take an eclectic approach to therapy, utilizing therapeutic techniques and theories based on each individual and their unique needs. I specialize in working with Trauma, PTSD, mood disorders and children. I am trained in EMDR, CBT, Play Therapy, Art Therapy and Sand Tray Therapy.
I am licensed therapist with over 15 years of extensive experience and am trained in EMDR, CBT, Play Therapy, Art Therapy and Sand Tray Therapy.
My therapeutic approach prioritizes client-centered care, emphasizing strengths and humanistic principles to empower individuals to recognize their capacity for personal growth. I believe in the importance and power of the therapeutic relationship and how feeling heard, validated and supported can help towards one’s personal growth. I take an eclectic approach to therapy, utilizing therapeutic techniques and theories based on each individual and their unique needs. I specialize in working with Trauma, PTSD, mood disorders and children. I am trained in EMDR, CBT, Play Therapy, Art Therapy and Sand Tray Therapy.
(805) 874-5344 View (805) 874-5344
Photo of Gianna Merriam, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Luis Obispo County, CA
Gianna Merriam
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Atascadero, CA 93422
I commonly utilize therapy modalities such as Play Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Parent-Child Psychotherapy, Motivational Interviewing, Trauma-Focused CBT, and EMDR.
Hello! My name is Gianna Merriam, LCSW. My therapeutic approach is person-centered, trauma-informed, and strength-based. My areas of practice include working with children and families, individuals (all ages), and groups. I enjoy promoting use of self-compassion practices, functional communication and empathy to impact individual needs and relationships. Clients I typically work with can range from age 5-60. I have extensive experience working with school-aged children that receive IEP services; I am educated and able to support parents in navigating the school system as well as community based resources.
I commonly utilize therapy modalities such as Play Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Parent-Child Psychotherapy, Motivational Interviewing, Trauma-Focused CBT, and EMDR.
Hello! My name is Gianna Merriam, LCSW. My therapeutic approach is person-centered, trauma-informed, and strength-based. My areas of practice include working with children and families, individuals (all ages), and groups. I enjoy promoting use of self-compassion practices, functional communication and empathy to impact individual needs and relationships. Clients I typically work with can range from age 5-60. I have extensive experience working with school-aged children that receive IEP services; I am educated and able to support parents in navigating the school system as well as community based resources.
(805) 793-1356 View (805) 793-1356
Photo of Emily Kerbo Foster, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo County, CA
Emily Kerbo Foster
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Atascadero, CA 93422
I work through a lens of attachment based theory, as well as cognitive behavioral and play therapy, to help clients alleviate the struggles they are having.
Hi there, I provide psychotherapy support for children and adults who are struggling with mental health, relationship, and/or behavioral difficulties. The concerns you have for yourself or your child may lead you to feel overwhelmed, worried, angry or lost. I am here to listen and understand your experience, and then provide personalized treatment. I also work with couples who are having difficulty with their relationship dynamics, communication, and/or co-parenting.
I work through a lens of attachment based theory, as well as cognitive behavioral and play therapy, to help clients alleviate the struggles they are having.
Hi there, I provide psychotherapy support for children and adults who are struggling with mental health, relationship, and/or behavioral difficulties. The concerns you have for yourself or your child may lead you to feel overwhelmed, worried, angry or lost. I am here to listen and understand your experience, and then provide personalized treatment. I also work with couples who are having difficulty with their relationship dynamics, communication, and/or co-parenting.
(805) 334-8492 View (805) 334-8492
Photo of Jessica (Jessie) Shorts, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo County, CA
Jessica (Jessie) Shorts
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, PMH-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
A connoisseur of play, I enjoy board games, tea, books, swimming, hiking, biking, and surfing.
Are you hoping for change, but feel stuck and keep hitting a wall? Are you an adolescent, adult, family, or a Mother in her motherhood journey? You may benefit from a holistic approach to psychotherapy, which considers the heart (emotions), mind (thoughts), body, and soul, and how they interact with each other. You might need a gentle and compassionate approach to work through hard things (past, present, and future). If life is overwhelming and leaving you drained, you deserve to have a more life-giving and abundant life.
A connoisseur of play, I enjoy board games, tea, books, swimming, hiking, biking, and surfing.
Are you hoping for change, but feel stuck and keep hitting a wall? Are you an adolescent, adult, family, or a Mother in her motherhood journey? You may benefit from a holistic approach to psychotherapy, which considers the heart (emotions), mind (thoughts), body, and soul, and how they interact with each other. You might need a gentle and compassionate approach to work through hard things (past, present, and future). If life is overwhelming and leaving you drained, you deserve to have a more life-giving and abundant life.
(805) 590-7003 View (805) 590-7003
Photo of Laurie Claire Gallagher, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Luis Obispo County, CA
Laurie Claire Gallagher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pismo Beach, CA 93449
I am certified in EMDR and highly trained in CBT, Hypnotherapy, Guided imagery, Mindfulness & Play/Art Therapy.
Let me help you process, heal and move beyond trauma, anxiety, depression, life challenges, and perceived limitations to improve quality of life, find peace, fulfillment and happiness in your life and relationships. I provide a comfortable, non judgmental environment for individuals, couples and children 9 and up. In person and virtual appointments available.
I am certified in EMDR and highly trained in CBT, Hypnotherapy, Guided imagery, Mindfulness & Play/Art Therapy.
Let me help you process, heal and move beyond trauma, anxiety, depression, life challenges, and perceived limitations to improve quality of life, find peace, fulfillment and happiness in your life and relationships. I provide a comfortable, non judgmental environment for individuals, couples and children 9 and up. In person and virtual appointments available.
(530) 450-2959 View (530) 450-2959
Photo of Leslie R Anderson, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo County, CA
Leslie R Anderson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA LMFT, RPT
Verified Verified
Nipomo, CA 93444
As a Registered Play Therapist (RPT) I utilize play therapy and art in my sessions with children as young as 3.
Therapy is a process of healing, growth and change. The aim is to achieve lasting growth by helping you find ways of seeing, thinking and feeling that leave you more capable and prosperous. My passion is to help children, teens, couples and adults build on their strengths to reach their full potential. My style is compassionate, nonjudgmental and interactive.
As a Registered Play Therapist (RPT) I utilize play therapy and art in my sessions with children as young as 3.
Therapy is a process of healing, growth and change. The aim is to achieve lasting growth by helping you find ways of seeing, thinking and feeling that leave you more capable and prosperous. My passion is to help children, teens, couples and adults build on their strengths to reach their full potential. My style is compassionate, nonjudgmental and interactive.
(805) 307-7971 View (805) 307-7971
Photo of Dr Holli Stewart & Associates in Counseling , Marriage & Family Therapist in San Luis Obispo County, CA
Dr Holli Stewart & Associates in Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS , MA, LMFT, PhD
Verified Verified
Arroyo Grande, CA 93420
Our Play Therapy room is state of art.
Dr. Holli Stewart has multiple specialties in Psychology with two Masters, PHD & 30 years of experience. w/children as young as 2 years, teens, adults & couples. Her specialties include: Play Therapy, PTSD, ADHD, Anxiety w/ Panic, Family conflict (such as past or current abuse, domestic violence, & reunification), Depression, Chronic Pain, & OCD. In general self esteem, life transition skills & identifying patterns that contribute to current stressors are incorporated into care. Dr Stewart also treats anger substance & co-dependency. She’s written a psychological advice column for 24 years,taught classes and many news & radio shows.
Our Play Therapy room is state of art.
Dr. Holli Stewart has multiple specialties in Psychology with two Masters, PHD & 30 years of experience. w/children as young as 2 years, teens, adults & couples. Her specialties include: Play Therapy, PTSD, ADHD, Anxiety w/ Panic, Family conflict (such as past or current abuse, domestic violence, & reunification), Depression, Chronic Pain, & OCD. In general self esteem, life transition skills & identifying patterns that contribute to current stressors are incorporated into care. Dr Stewart also treats anger substance & co-dependency. She’s written a psychological advice column for 24 years,taught classes and many news & radio shows.
(805) 876-9092 View (805) 876-9092

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Play Therapy

Who is play therapy for?

Play therapy is generally targeted to children between the ages of 3 and 11 who have social, emotional, or behavioral difficulties. Play therapy has also been found helpful for children who have experienced physical or emotional abuse or witnessed atrocities. Play therapy is also often recommended for children who are undergoing major medical procedures or who are suffering from chronic illness; many children’s hospitals are equipped to offer play therapy on-site. Play therapy is also sometimes used for adults; creative writing, music, and art are expressive forms that can all be adapted for therapeutic purposes.

Why do people need play therapy?

Children often do not have the language skills or words to know or to express what is troubling them. Yet they often spontaneously draw or use playthings to depict scenarios that reflect problems in their everyday life. Play therapy provides children with an array of objects and play situations to act out their feelings or experiences so that therapists can get a clear picture of what children might be struggling with and help them find solutions. In addition, play therapists are skilled at helping children understand their inner experience and find words for them, necessary steps toward helping children learn to control their own behavior and come up with solutions to problems they encounter.

What happens in play therapy?

A child enters a comfortable playroom where they are free to choose the objects they want to play with. The play therapist will typically observe how they play with the toys—whether a sandbox, puppets, dolls and action figures, trucks, costumes, drawing and painting materials, or more—because such play provides clues to a child’s family and social relationships, difficulties they are encountering in the world, and what going on inside themselves. Sometimes the therapist may ask the child to use the play objects to tell a story about their family. Using the same instruments of play, therapists can help children discover more advantageous ways of thinking and behaving.

What kinds of problems do play therapists treat?

Play therapy can help children who display destructive or self-destructive impulses; children who seem angry, sad, or fearful; children who experience frequent social, emotional, family, or school difficulty. Play therapy is often of value to children who have experienced a loss or distressing family experience, who are regularly exposed to family conflict, or who have been physically or emotionally abused. Play therapy can help children who are perpetrators of bullying as well as those who are targets of bullying. It helps children learn to identify their feelings, to express them in constructive ways, and to regulate them so they can get on with the business of development.

How long does play therapy last?

Play therapy sessions may last for 30 to 45 minutes, and they usually occur weekly for about 20 sessions. Each session is tailored to the individual child and the kinds of problems they are struggling with. Play that is highly repetitive often indicates a problem requiring further exploration. Therapists typically measure progress through session-to-session changes in play behavior.